Hershey Park offers unique opportunities for Girl Scouts to earn badges and patches while exploring the world of chocolate and nature. This guide provides comprehensive information on the Hershey Park Girl Scout badge programs, including specific requirements, itinerary planning, and logistical details. Whether you’re a troop leader or a scout, this resource will help you make the most of your Hershey Park experience.
What Are the Specific Requirements for Hershey Park Girl Scout Badges?
Hershey Gardens
Brownie and Junior Girl Scouts
- Scouting for Nature Scavenger Hunt
- Explores outdoor themed Gardens and indoor Butterfly Atrium
- Satisfies some Brownie and Junior Girl Scout requirements
-
Rewards scouts with a Hershey Gardens patch upon completion
-
Outdoor Art Creator Badge Workshop (Brownies)
- Focuses on creative movement
- Involves making art with recycled and natural objects
-
Develops observational skills
-
Outdoor Art Explorer Workshop (Juniors)
- Emphasizes exploring and learning about nature
- Encourages creating artworks inspired by nature
The Hershey Story
Cadette and Senior Girl Scouts
- Business Creator & Business Startup Badge Workshop
- Scouts work in teams to:
- Design a chocolate confectionery prototype
- Conduct a focus group
- Utilize SWOT analysis
- Develop a business plan
- Present their product and plan
Scouts BSA
- Entrepreneurship Merit Badge Workshop
- Requires completion of prerequisites
- Includes an onsite program
- Participants must:
- Provide their own lunches
- Complete specific activities under merit badge counselor guidance
How Should Troop Leaders Plan a Visit for Hershey Park Girl Scout Badge Activities?
Hershey Gardens
Group Reservations
- Eligible for discounted rates with 5 or more scouts
- Reservations required for group rate
Recommended Schedule
- Full day recommended for scavenger hunt and badge workshops
- Workshop timings:
- Outdoor Art Creator: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Outdoor Art Explorer: 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
The Hershey Story
Group Requirements
- One adult required per troop or individual Scout
- Adult participation limited to:
- 1 Leader/adult chaperone per 5 girls
- 1 per troop if less than 5 girls
Registration and Timing
- Registration mandatory
- Specific dates and times for workshops
- Example: Business Creator & Business Startup workshop on September 28, 2024
Recommended Schedule
- Business Creator & Business Startup: Half-day event starting at 9:30 a.m.
- Scouts BSA Entrepreneurship Merit Badge: Full day from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
What Types of Girl Scout Patches Are Available at Hershey Park?
Hershey Gardens Patch
- Awarded upon completion of the Scouting for Nature scavenger hunt
- Included with garden admission, no additional cost
The Hershey Story Patch
- Requirements:
- Complete the Scouting for History guide
- Participate in a public Chocolate Lab class or Chocolate Tasting
- Not included with badge workshops
- Requires additional activities beyond workshops
What Are the Logistical Details for Accessing Hershey Park Girl Scout Badge Programs?
Parking and Transportation
- Contact venue directly for specific parking options and transportation services
Accessibility Features
- Both Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story designed to be accessible
- Contact venues for specific accessibility features and accommodations
Rules and Guidelines
- General admission tickets required for non-participating family members
- Extra adults and children may purchase Museum Experience tickets at admissions desk
- Only registered Scouts and required Leaders/adult chaperones permitted in workshop activities
How Can Troop Leaders Maximize the Hershey Park Girl Scout Badge Experience?
- Plan Ahead: Book workshops and activities well in advance to ensure availability.
- Prepare Scouts: Brief scouts on badge requirements and expectations before the visit.
- Combine Activities: Consider combining Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story visits for a comprehensive experience.
- Encourage Reflection: After the visit, hold a troop meeting to discuss what was learned and how it applies to their scouting journey.
- Follow-Up Activities: Plan follow-up activities to reinforce skills learned during the Hershey Park experience.
What Additional Resources Are Available for Hershey Park Girl Scout Badge Programs?
| Resource | Description | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Scouting for Nature Guide | Scavenger hunt materials | Hershey Gardens |
| Scouting for History Guide | Historical exploration guide | The Hershey Story |
| Badge Requirement Checklists | Detailed lists of badge requirements | Girl Scouts website |
| Hershey Park Map | Navigation aid for the park | Hershey Park website |
| Workshop Materials | Supplies for badge workshops | Provided at workshops |
By utilizing these resources and following the guidelines provided, troop leaders can ensure a rewarding and educational Hershey Park Girl Scout badge experience for their scouts.
References:
1. https://www.hersheygardens.org/education/scouts/
2. https://hersheystory.org/scout-programs/
3. https://hersheystory.org/hershey-story-event/cadette-girl-scout-entrepreneur-badge-workshop-4/